Know How Pollutants Trigger Asthma Symptoms And Ways To Manage Flare-ups
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi dropped to the ‘very poor’ category on Monday. According to SAFAR, several regions in the capital recorded AQI that was above 300. Due to poor AQI levels, visibility too dropped in several parts of Delhi. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said that Anand Vihar recorded the worst air quality with a reading of 361.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes Air Pollution as “contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.” An AQI between zero and 50 is considered ‘good’, 51 to 100 ‘satisfactory’, 101 to 200 ‘moderate’, 201 to 300 ‘poor’, 301 to 400 ‘very poor’, and 401 to 500 ‘severe’.
When AQI levels drop, people with asthma often see their symptoms worsen. Asthma is a condition wherein the airways swell and become narrow. It can also produce extra mucus. The condition usually makes breathing difficult. It can also lead to coughing, shortness of breath and a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out.
Mayo Clinic says that for some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. “For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.”
How does air pollution trigger asthma symptoms?
The small airborne particles called “particulate matter” or PM found in haze, smoke, soot and airborne dust can lead to serious air quality problems. These smallest particles (PM2.5) can get deep into the lungs or even your blood. They can pass through your nose or mouth and get into your lungs and blood. This eventually aggravates the symptoms of asthma.
Air pollution also inflames and irritates the lining and receptors in a person’s airways. This causes the airways to tighten and swell, a common symptom of asthma, thereby, worsening the symptoms of asthma.
Also, air pollution has substances that are toxic for your respiratory tract. When you’re exposed to these pollutants, it causes oxidative stress and aggravates asthma symptoms.
Therefore, it is important that you take the necessary measures to manage asthma flare-ups when the air quality starts to worsen. Here, take a look at some of the ways to manage asthma flare-ups.
Ways to manage asthma flare-ups when air pollution worsens
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Keep a check on air quality: Use air quality index (AQI) apps or websites to stay informed about pollution levels. If AQI is high, make sure to limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure.
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Stay indoors during peak pollution: Pollutants are usually high during rush hours and midday. Stay indoors during these times and keep your windows and doors closed to prevent polluted air from entering.
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Use air purifiers: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can help remove fine particles from indoor air. You can also use air purifiers, especially in bedrooms and living spaces.
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Wear a mask when outdoors: If you have to go outside, wear an N95 or similar mask to filter out fine particulate matter. These masks can help to reduce inhalation of harmful pollutants.
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Take medications: Follow your asthma action plan and make sure you take long-term control medications. Carry an inhaler for immediate relief if symptoms flare up.
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Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and use a humidifier to keep indoor air moist, as dry air can irritate airways.
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Avoid outdoor exercise: Strenuous physical activity increases breathing rate, thereby, allowing more pollutants to enter your lungs. Opt for light indoor exercises instead.
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